The Master Circular consolidates and updates the regulatory...

The Master Circular consolidates and updates the regulatory framework for SEBI-registered merchant bankers, rescinding listed earlier circulars while preserving prior actions, rights, liabilities, penalties and pending applications. It requires portal-based registration and regulatory requests, prior approval for changes in control, and fresh registration for specified business transfers. It prescribes phased capital adequacy and liquid net worth compliance, professional certification, an independent compliance officer, and relevant experience for principal officers. Merchant bankers must submit half-yearly compliance reports, disclose issue track records and investor complaints, maintain investor charters, protect critical data, restrict outsourcing of core activities, manage conflicts of interest, and segregate non-SEBI-regulated activities through separate business units.